BJSM Lights Up Auckland with Grand Diwali & Chhath Celebration
Auckland, 1 November 2025 – The Bihar Jharkhand Sabha (BJSM) brought the spirit of home to Aotearoa this Diwali, hosting a spectacular Diwali and Chhath Celebration at Mount Roskill War Memorial Hall.
The evening beautifully blended tradition, culture, and community pride. Hundreds of families came together to celebrate light, faith, and togetherness.
Dignitaries and Guests of Honour
The celebration began with an auspicious lamp-lighting ceremony. Distinguished guests included Mrs. Swagatika Sethi, wife of the Consul General of India (Auckland), and Mr. Veer Khar, President of the New Zealand Indian Central Association (NZICA).
Several Members of Parliament graced the occasion – Dr. Paramjit Parmar, Mr. Kamaljit Singh Bakshi, Ms. Nancy Lu, and Dr. Carlos Cheung. Each shared heartfelt words about India’s culture and the power of unity in diversity.
Dr. Paramjit Parmar spoke about Diwali as a festival that unites people beyond boundaries.
“Diwali is not just about lights and lamps,” she said. “It is about the light of knowledge, hope, and humanity that India has shared with the world. The warmth of this community makes Auckland glow brighter tonight.”
Mr. Kamaljit Singh Bakshi, a senior community leader, reflected on India’s heritage.
“Bihar has been the cradle of India’s culture – from Nalanda to the roots of Buddhism,” he said. “Events like this keep our values of unity and celebration alive wherever we live.”
Ms. Nancy Lu admired India’s colour and BJSM’s role in enriching New Zealand’s diversity.
“Every Indian celebration amazes me – the colour, music, and joy,” she said. “This Diwali shows how cultural inclusion makes our nation stronger.”
Dr. Carlos Cheung, MP for Mount Roskill, shared memories from his visit to India.
“I still remember the vibrant colours and sparkling dresses I saw there,” he smiled. “It’s wonderful to see the same energy right here in Mount Roskill. Thank you for bringing Diwali’s spirit to our neighbourhood.”
Also joining the stage were Ms. Mallika Jankiraman (Chairperson and Founder, Wahine), Mr. Chetan Joshi, Mr. Kalyan Bhai, Mr. Rakesh, and Mr. Arun. Their ongoing support continues to strengthen BJSM’s community presence across Auckland.
The guests appreciated the teamwork of BJSM’s executive committee – President Mr. Bhrigu Bhaskar, Vice President Ms. Krishna Singh, General Secretary Mr. Ravi Gupta, Cultural Head Mr. Rajesh Kumar, Treasurer Ms. Sujata Kumar, and Patron Mr. Chandan Ji.
Cultural Performances and Highlights
The celebration opened with a graceful Guru Vandana dance by Shubhi, setting a devotional tone.
Later, Mr. Sandeep Khetan from Bank of Baroda felicitated her with a certificate and a gift sponsored by Webfit.com (Webfit Solutions Ltd).
While addressing the audience, Mr. Khetan praised the spirit of Bihar and its people.
“From Bihar to Brisbane, from Patna to Melbourne – our people carry the same light wherever they go,” he said. “Seeing that pride here in Auckland is inspiring. BJSM connects tradition with service, and that defines our roots.”
He also encouraged stronger bonds within the diaspora.
“At Bank of Baroda, we believe in growing with the community,” he added. “Support one another, build together, and see us as your bank away from home.”
Young performer Naysa Gupta then took the stage and captivated the crowd.
Her act was followed by a colourful fashion show featuring children of all ages.
The segment, coordinated by Ravi Gupta as MC, was filled with laughter, cheers, and proud parents.
Fashion show participants were honoured by sponsors including BRV Consultants and Mr. Biren Mishra, who shared an engaging story about Sita Mata’s birthplace in Sitamarhi, Bihar, adding a cultural and spiritual touch to the night.
Chhath Spirit and Melodic Moments
The Chhath segment brought devotion and melody to the hall.
Akanksha and Laksh, a performing couple, offered a soulful presentation symbolising cultural grace. They were felicitated by Sangam & Junoon owners Rupesh and Shubhudi.
Singer Priyanka Singh followed with traditional Bhojpuri and Awadhi songs that touched the audience deeply.
Active BJSM member Dishi Gupta also performed, winning hearts with her lively presence.
Adding glamour and rhythm, the all-women group Spirit of the Tribe stunned the crowd with their fusion belly dance and live dhol beats that got everyone tapping.
Grand Finale – A Celebration of Unity
As the evening concluded, BJSM’s grand finale turned into a full community celebration.
Dignitaries, MPs, sponsors, and guests all joined together on stage, dancing in joy.
The hall shimmered with lights, laughter, and music – a perfect reflection of BJSM’s fifteen-year journey of togetherness.
Guests enjoyed a short tea break featuring Indian favourites – chai, samosa, and pakodi.
Later, a warm Indian dinner wrapped up the night on a homely note.
A Night to Remember
This year’s Diwali and Chhath Celebration was not just an event – it was an emotion.
From dignitaries to children, from classical dance to modern fusion, every moment echoed BJSM’s mission: preserving Indian roots while embracing New Zealand’s multicultural identity.
BJSM extended heartfelt thanks to all dignitaries, MPs, sponsors, and volunteers – including Ms. Mallika Jankiraman, Mr. Chetan Joshi, Mr. Kalyan Bhai, Mr. Rakesh, and Mr. Arun – whose support made the evening unforgettable.
Once again, BJSM proved that wherever Diwali lights shine and the sun of Chhath rises, home is where the community gathers.
